Editor:
Re: “Sechelt chief librarian stepping down,” Feb. 2.
It seems we are losing one of our local heroes – or heroines, to be accurate. Margaret Hodgins has resigned as the head librarian and director of our amazing library.
At least, our library had become amazing, with a dynamic team of committed people, socio-educational programs, increase in relevant materials to survive in our technological world, and cultural/financial events. Margaret and her dedicated staff have deepened the roots and widened the vision of a small town library. When we came to Sechelt, we were met with a less than inspiring library, with limited hours, and virtually no community programming. Over the last while, with smart planning, engagement, and co-sponsorship of events, our library has been at the heart of community building.
Her plea and expectation for the library to be treated as well as any other library in the province, have again been dashed. How? In the chambers of our representatives, who do not seem to yet have grasped the concept of a community library as community hub. There has been a lack of local community funding. It has been so exciting to see our Capilano University campus, our library, shíshálh Hospital, local actors and entertainers having joint events to educate, involve, entertain and engage us in music, poetry, acting, personal health care, mental and financial health, and more.
It has been appalling to witness the stonewalling of this competent professional by those who are listening to their own tune. Could it be that they do not partake of what a library offers? Instead of being proud of our increase in participants, in services, in vision, they show surprise that we are needing as much support as other libraries. We have been underfunded for years – and now we are losing one of the most steadfast and inspiring people in our community.
Margaret, we were so fortunate for the time you gave us. We are all still in shock, and heartsick. You will be sorely missed.
Deanne Mineau and Geordie Colvin, Sechelt
